Boy · 140th of 23,106
Jonah
Meaning, origin and U.S. popularity at a glance
83,176
Total Births
145
Years of Data
2008
Peak Popularity Year
2,998
Peak Births
Generational story
Where Jonah stands across generations
Rankings for U.S. births from 2013 to 2024.
Based on the most recent three-year movement in the national data.
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Meaning, origin & U.S. popularity
Summary
The name Jonah has Hebrew origins, meaning 'dove.' It evolved through historical forms such as Yonah in Hebrew and Ionas in Greek. The biblical figure associated with the name is known for his flight from divine duty, adding depth to its meaning. The name has been popular in various cultures, particularly within Christianity. It is perceived positively in modern society, often linked with faith and endurance, and has notable bearers in contemporary culture.
Etymology & cultural background Open the full meaning, origin, history, and variants
Etymology & Cultural Background
Pronunciation
/ˈdʒoʊ.nə/
Origin
Hebrew
Etymology
The name Jonah is derived from the Hebrew name 'Yonah' (יוֹנָה), which means 'dove.' It is associated with the biblical figure who was swallowed by a great fish.
Meaning
dove
Language Evolution
Yonah (Hebrew), Ionas (Greek), Jonas (Latin), Jonah (English)
Biblical Background
The name Jonah is prominently featured in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in the Book of Jonah, where he is a prophet known for his attempt to flee from God's command.
Historical Usage
The name gained popularity in the English-speaking world during the Protestant Reformation, influenced by biblical translations and the resurgence of interest in biblical names.
Variants & Derivatives
Jonas, Jona, Jon, Jo, Yoni
Modern Popularity & Image
In contemporary times, Jonah is often viewed as a classic name with strong biblical connections. It conveys qualities of resilience and faith.
Famous People
Jonah Hill (actor), Jonah Lomu (rugby player), Jonah Lehrer (author)
Trend Analysis
Boy Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
3-Year Trend:
Stable
25-Year Trend:
Relatively Stable
Girl Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
3-Year Trend:
Stable
25-Year Trend:
Relatively Stable
Explore popularity by location
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Key Insights
Popularity Trend
Highly Popular name with 2,998 peak births in 2008
Geographic Spread
Popular across 51 US states, with strongest presence in Hawaii
Historical Span
Data spanning 145 years from 1880 to 2024, showing long-term trends
Generational Impact
Influenced 12 different American generations with varying popularity
Alternative spellings & similar sounds
Compare 7 names that share a similar pronunciation but use different spellings.
Historical Birth Statistics
Note: Years with identical rankings may represent different numbers of births. Data is sourced from Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
Yearly Ranking History
Full popularity table across American generations 12 generation and gender records
Popularity Across American Generations
| Generation | Gender | Rank | Recorded births |
|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) | Boy | 1216th of 7545 | 554 |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) | Boy | 1341st of 6773 | 470 |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) | Boy | 1487th of 7552 | 524 |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) | Boy | 683rd of 10718 | 2,327 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) | Boy | 415th of 16616 | 7,774 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) | Boy | 170th of 24088 | 37,089 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) | Boy | 140th of 23106 | 33,531 |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) | Girl | 12526th of 12526 | 5 |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) | Girl | 11760th of 19264 | 30 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) | Girl | 8985th of 27321 | 115 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) | Girl | 6343rd of 35406 | 302 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) | Girl | 5243rd of 30306 | 300 |